On August 12, 2011, hikers reported the discovery of a deceased individual located near a hiking trail in close proximity to the Appalachian Trail, in the Northwest part of Amherst County, Virginia. Investigators from the Amherst County Sheriff’s Office, the Virginia State Police, the United States Forest Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation responded to the scene and the body was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, Virginia Department of Health.
Subsequent investigation identified the victim as Mr. Scott Lilly of South Bend, Indiana, known by the trail name “Stonewall.” It appears Mr. Lilly was hiking the Appalachian Trail and the circumstances of his death are suspicious.
While this multi-agency investigation is ongoing, and the release of information may be limited, it is important for the public to be aware that no information has been developed by these agencies that would lead the investigators to believe other hikers would be targeted. However, hikers are encouraged to continue exercising the usual precautions while on any trail.
Mr. Lilly’s name and photo are being provided with the request that anyone who may have seen or had contact with him recently, call either the Central Virginia Crime Stoppers (1-888-798-5900) or the FBI (1-800 CALL FBI option #4 -1-800-225-5324 option #4) and relay any information that may be pertinent to this investigation.
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